Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden and severe pain in the joints. While its treatment involves medications such as painkillers, it is the person’s lifestyle choices that can help prevent future attacks.
The most common medications, as per NHS,are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) such as ibuprofen. However, in case the swelling persists, the patient may also be prescribed steroids.
Gout is caused by tiny crystals of uric acid (a chemical made by your body) formed in and around your joints. The most affected area by gout is the big toe joint. Further, it can affect the ankles, the knees, the fingers and wrists, the elbows, and the middle of the feet.
Uric acid appears naturally in the body when when substances called purines are broken down into waste products. Some foods and drinks that are rich in purines are: red meat, alcoholic beverages, fish and shellfish, mushroom, and certain vegetables such as asparagus, spinach, and cauliflower.
As per the Mayo Clinic, as gout progresses, it limits the range of motion in the joints.
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